EMMERDALE's bad boy Simon McManus is a very familiar face for some viewers, but why do you recognise him?

Emmerdale’s Simon McManus – who is portrayed by actor Liam Ainsworth – made his debut on the ITV soap in 2016.

After a brief stint away from the longstanding programme, the star has reprised his bad boy role as the drug dealer who had a vital part to play in Cain Dingle, played by Jeff Hordley - vicious plot against Joe Tate, played by Ned Porteus.

But Liam’s appearance on Emmerdale is not the first time he has appeared on screen.

Here is everything you need to know about Liam; from his secret career outside of the soap to his famous girlfriend.

Liam Ainsworth plays Simon McManus in Emmerdale [ITV]

TV career

Liam landed the role as Simon McManus in Emmerdale in 2016, but prior to his appearance he starred in a string of other series.

Liam previously starred in Doctors, which saw him play the role of Darren in the BBC soap.

But that is not all, as Liam has also starred in Babylon and Vera, in which he took on the character of Rich.

Prior to securing his position in Emmerdale, Liam starred in Beowulf: Return to the Shiedlands, in which he portrayed Dayraven, followed by In The Dark.

Liam Ainsworth has also starred in major film roles [Liam Ainsworth/ Facebook]

Film career

Liam has not only boasted a successful career on the small screen, he has also starred in major movies after training at Manchester School of Acting.

The Emmerdale star has starred in Barking At Trees, in which he had a minor role as a thug.